The Address of the President of the Russian Federation Mr D.Medvedev to UNESCO Director-General Ms I. Bokova on the occasion of the organisation’s 65th Anniversary

Dear Ms Director-General,

Please, accept my congratulations on the occasion of the 65th Anniversary of UNESCO.

UNESCO has a special role within the UN family. Established after World War II, this organisation, which is often called ‘humanity’s conscience’, embodies the lofty aspirations of the world’s peoples and countries, strengthening mutual understanding and promoting the ideals of tolerance, cultural diversity, and respect for human dignity. Over the years of following this noble mission UNESCO has earned great authority and respect in the international community.

Today, the organisation successfully unites countries in their efforts in education, culture, science and communications, and has an important civilising mission.

Our relations with UNESCO demonstrate clearly how much the organisation’s goals and Russia’s potential can complement each other for the good of intercultural dialogue and affirming common human values. This forms a vital humanitarian component in the world’s efforts to eradicate the breeding grounds for extremism, terrorism and other negative effects of globalisation.

I am sure that UNESCO will continue to provide an effective forum for cooperation among peoples and countries in the name of enlightenment, humanism and peace.